Chores. . .

Josh is responsible for pool upkeep. . .maybe he'll have his own pool business one summer!

Shucking corn is always a favorite!  And something that preschoolers can help accomplish!

Jon wants to be a handy-man when he grows up, so we try to give him chores that help him achieve that. . .he needed a little assistance from big brother, Josh, this time!

Hannah and Naomi are "Happy Helpers" as they sweep up breakfast crumbs.

I almost titled this post as "Chores vs. Sports" but thought that really wasn't fair.  I'm not against sports and our kids do participate at times in various activities.  However, I believe the modern family attempts to accomplish what chores once provided with sports.  This is impossible.  Sports may have their place and benefits, but they do not provide what chores provide.  Chores teach perseverance, hard work, patience, diligence - but working for the Lord, not the applause of men.  There are no trophies given.  In fact, most chores are somewhat unnoticed unless they are not done well or forgotten!  Chores contribute to the family.  There are many chores to be done in a family of 10.  Many chores become a "rite of passage" of sorts.  As the children grow, they take on chores and hand-off others to younger siblings.  The Maxwells, titus2.com, have an excellent resource on chores and Kendra, preschoolersandpeace.com, has some of her chore charts listed, as well.  Learning to serve the Lord in the mundane, daily activities of life with JOY. . .off to my chores!